Costco’s return policy is legendary, but even the warehouse giant has its limits. While you can return most items for a full refund, not everything is eligible for hassle-free returns. A few sneaky items might end up permanent residents of your home. Here’s a list of 20 items you cannot return at Costco.
Batteries
While Costco’s generous return policy covers many items, batteries are an exception. Since their power diminishes with use, batteries are treated like consumable products, similar to a used cup of coffee. This ensures customers buy only new, fully charged batteries.
Soaps
Unlike most items at Costco, soap isn’t returnable. Their policy assumes once you’ve brought it home and tried it, it’s yours to keep, regardless of your personal preference. This likely helps prevent returns due to opened packages or simply not liking the scent.
Forgotten Groceries
Don’t expect Costco’s return policy to save your forgotten groceries. Rotten food isn’t accepted for returns. This means produce that goes bad at home after purchase. Perishable items like fresh fruits, vegetables, and even seasonal goods are on a no-return list to ensure quality and safety for all customers.
Toilet Paper and Paper Towels
People often make bulk purchases at Costco, which means they tend to buy more than they need. This includes toilet paper and paper towels. Due to hygiene concerns, these items cannot be returned, even if unopened. If you find yourself with more than you need, consider donating any extras to shelters or schools.
Tires After Installation
Costco’s return policy doesn’t cover tires after installation. Similar to how you can’t return used shoes, even slight wear from driving makes them ineligible for return. This industry-standard policy ensures customers receive safe, unused tires. So, choose the right tires for your car before hitting the road.
Used Underwear
Thankfully, some return policies go without saying. While Costco’s satisfaction guarantee is impressive, it doesn’t apply to used underwear. This is a common-sense exclusion to ensure hygiene and cleanliness for all customers.
Rice
Unlike most pantry staples, opened rice isn’t returnable at Costco. The messiness of potential spills is likely the reason behind this policy. But the good news is rice has a long shelf life. If you end up with more than you need, you can save it for later or even donate to a local food pantry.
Sanitizing Wipes
During the pandemic, Costco saw a surge in sales of cleaning products, including sanitizing wipes. However, their return policy doesn’t cover these wipes due to concerns about potential contamination once the package is opened. So, always choose the quantity you’ll realistically use to avoid unwanted extras.
Custom-Made Items
Custom-made products from the Special Order Kiosk or Custom Installed Programs, like engraved rings or tailored blinds, are generally non-returnable. However, if the product has a mistake or defect, it can be returned. This ensures you get what you ordered—the perfect gift or flawless home improvement.
Alcohol
Unlike most items, Costco’s return policy for alcohol varies by state due to local laws. It’s always best to check before buying in bulk to avoid surprises at checkout. This policy ensures Costco complies with state regulations for alcohol sales.
Cigarettes
Just like with alcohol, state laws prevent returns of cigarettes at Costco. This might be just the push you need to quit smoking. While some regions might have exceptions, it’s best to assume all cigarettes are final sale to avoid hassle.
Gold Bars
Gold bars at Costco are a final sale. Unlike most items, their ever-changing value on the market means they can’t be returned. Think of it as a permanent investment, not a trial purchase.
Diamonds Over 1 Carat
Unlike most jewelry at Costco, returning diamonds over 1 carat involves extra steps. To prevent fraud, they require all original paperwork and a receipt for verification. This ensures the returned diamond matches the one you purchased. Be sure you love the stone before buying, as the standard 90-day jewelry return policy applies here, too.
Electronics After 90 Days
Costco’s generous return policy for electronics doesn’t last forever. You have 90 days to try out your new gadgets, so make sure they impress before the trial period ends. Anything kept after 90 days is not acceptable for returns.
Limited Quantity Items
Costco’s usual return policy doesn’t apply to items marked “limited quantity.” These exclusive items are final sale products, so choose wisely before swiping your card. Consider it a chance to bag something special, but remember, you can’t return it once it’s yours.
Software And Video Games
Think twice before buying software or video games at Costco. Unlike other items, these can’t be returned once opened. This policy keeps things fair by preventing software copying and ensuring everyone gets brand-new products. Ensure you want it (and your computer can handle it!) before breaking the seal.
Prescription Drugs
Costco’s return policy excludes prescription drugs. This safety measure guarantees that only dispensed medications are available, preventing possible misuse or contamination. Double-checking your prescriptions before leaving the pharmacy is critical to avoiding any headaches.
Custom-Made Glasses And Contacts
Unlike most Costco purchases, you can’t return custom-made glasses or contacts. Since they’re crafted specifically for your eyes, think of them as personalized tools for seeing the world perfectly. Double-check your prescription before you place your order.
Gift Cards
Costco’s gift cards aren’t returnable. Once you buy them, they’re locked in for future purchases, either for yourself or a lucky friend. This policy aligns with most stores, so choose wisely before adding them to your cart
Digital Downloads
Costco’s return policy doesn’t include digital downloads. Unlike most COSTCO items, you can’t get a refund on movies, music, or software after you hit download. Do your research and preview before clicking buy.